DESIGN CONCEPT

Constructed in traditional Japanese style, the Japanese Mountain retreat has been designed to immerse the visitor in all things Japanese, evoking relaxation through balance and harmony with five star accommodation.  

Deborah Quitt, the owner and creator wanted the retreat to be a haven for couples, and to give them the opportunity to shun the outside world and instead reconnect with each other. Simplistic Japanese architecture and design, natural surroundings and lack of distractions (apart from a  CD player and TV concealed in a cupboard), encourages intimacy and allows visitors to focus inward.

 

An admirer of oriental architecture, Quitt conducted extensive research into Japanese architecture.  Whilst her objective was to create an authentic ryokan, she wanted to practise sustainable development, and achieved this with the use of recycled Oregon, cedar, bamboo and straw for the building of the retreat.

 

Shoji screens are used to partition living and sleeping areas, allowing natural light to flood into the minimalist interiors.  Floors are covered with traditional Tatami mats.

The retreat encourages visitors to relax with a soak in a deep spa bath (ofuro) overlooking your own private Japanese outdoor garden (niwa). To the Japanese, the bathing process means a lot more than simply getting clean, the focus being on shedding layers of clothing and cleansing the soul.


ENVIRONMENTAL

Recycled and plantation materials have been used in the construction of the building.
Green house gas is offset by plantation of bamboo groves.
Water saving methods include the construction of a wetland wastewater treatment system, use of ground spring water, and tank water, with greywater being used for irrigation.
Energy efficient lighting is used throughout the reatreat.     FEATURES

The retreat features two double guest rooms, each complete with traditional bathroom overlooking it’s own private Japanese garden. Each room enjoys a large moon viewing ‘dais’ overlooking a lake.

Added extras include in-room shiatsu, relaxation or remedial massage treatments, authentic Japanese cuisine and the chance to partake in a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.


LOCATION

The Japanese Mountain Retreat is situated on five secluded acres of natural forest overlooking watergardens/tree views.  Just 45 minutes from Melbourne in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges and 15 minutes form the heart of the Yarra Valley

RATES

Monday to Thursday $375.00 per night.
Friday or Sunday night $450.00.
Saturday $550.00
Two night weekend $850.00.
All stays include complimentary continental and cooked breakfast provisions.
Five course Japanese Banquet $99.00 per couple.